In the heart of Eastern Europe, in a picturesque corner of Moldova, a community thrives with a rich identity rooted in culture and tradition. The Gagauz people carry an undiscovered history that dates back over a thousand years. One theory suggests they descend from Turkic tribes that migrated from the Altai Mountains in the Balkans to Bulgaria. They speak Gagauz, a Turkic language. Some historians believe that, along with other Christian peoples of the Balkans, the Gagauz arrived in Europe from the Central Asian steppes in the 7th century.
In Bugeac, the Gagauz enjoyed many privileges, which allowed them to farm, craft, and trade across the Russian Empire. They excelled in sheep breeding and became renowned winemakers. For the Gagauz, wine is more than a drink—it is an integral part of their material and spiritual culture. Their winemaking tradition dates back to their time in Dobrogea.
After settling in Bessarabia, they continued this craft, adopting some local techniques. They primarily cultivated Zaiber and Cuderca grape varieties, chosen for their ability to thrive in the region’s climate.
Another key element of Gagauz culture is their national costume, which reflects their heritage. Gagauz takes great pride in its traditional attire, distinguished by its dark, subdued colors and intricate embroidery. Today, they wear these garments at festivals and cultural events. The Gagauz men’s costume includes a shirt, loose-fitting trousers, a wide red belt, and a hat. The women’s costume comprises a hand-woven blouse, a dress, and a dark-colored headscarf.
Local intellectuals played a crucial role in preserving Gagauz culture and language. In 1988, in Comrat, the cultural center of Gagauzia, Gagauz scholars gathered to discuss history and heritage. They expressed concern over the decline of the Gagauz language, which was fading from daily life and schools.
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Gagauz Dili, or the Gagauz language, belongs to the Oghuz branch of Turkic languages. Today, around 180,000 people speak it, most residing in Gagauz Autonomy. Before the late 19th century, neither the term “Gagauz” nor the language’s name existed in historical records. Russian researcher Valentin Muscov changed that in the 1890s. He led expeditions, collected linguistic data, and published studies confirming that the Gagauz people spoke a distinct Turkic language.
Today, UTA Gagauzia has become a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors with its traditions, cuisine, and cultural celebrations. One of the most significant Gagauz holidays is Hederlez, observed on May 6. This festival coincides with Orthodox Christians’ celebration of St. George’s Day and marks the arrival of spring and the start of agricultural work. On this day, families traditionally sacrifice an animal and prepare its meat with bulgur, a staple made from processed wheat. Another important holiday, Kasim, is on November 8, St. Dmitry’s Day. It marks the end of the agricultural season and the beginning of winter. The Gagauz divide the year into two cycles: winter, from Kasim to Hederlez, and summer, from Hederlez to Kasim.
For over two centuries, the Gagauz have lived in Moldova, experiencing periods of national revival, identity struggles, and cultural growth. Their presence enriches Moldova’s diversity. While they sometimes hold distinct perspectives, dialogue between central and autonomous authorities has always fostered solutions that strengthen national unity. The Gagauz Autonomy, through its cultural heritage and commitment to dialogue, remains one of Moldova’s greatest assets.
This material was developed in the framework of the project “Supporting institutionalized and sustainable dialogue on Gagauzia Autonomy”, implemented by CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation and financed by Sweden. The opinions expressed in this material pertain to the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of CMI or of Sweden.